San Diego has something for everyone, whether it’s the beach, the city life or foodie favorites for any dietary preference. You won’t want to miss out on these delicious plant-based options that are packed with colorful flavors throughout this vegan-friendly California county. Welcome to the San Di-vegan life!
1. Trilogy Sanctuary
Where: Rooftop & Level 3, 7650 Girard Ave Suite 400, La Jolla, CA 92037
Region: La Jolla
Venture into this rooftop sanctuary overlooking La Jolla’s glistening beaches for nourishment from the inside out at this award-winning indoor/outdoor cafe, yoga studio and spiritual healing space. Taste the vibrant flavors of the popular Lovely Lettuce Cups, Holy Beet Wraps or bountiful bowls. Don’t forget to complement your organic, vegan and gluten-free meal with a smoothie, tea, kombucha or coffee while you enjoy the ocean breeze.
2. The Purplemint Vegan Bistro
Where: 6171 Mission Gorge Rd Unit 118, San Diego, CA 92120
Region: Mission Valley & Old Town
Experience a spin on Asian cuisine at The Purplemint, where healthy eating meets traditional culture. Start with Avocado Rolls and move down the menu to try the noodle soups, in which you can get “chicken,” “shrimp” and even “beef” — without the meat. Everything is 100% vegan and includes meatless strips, plant-based protein or soy protein. Enjoy tasting the rainbow with a colorful array of veggies made from all-natural, fresh ingredients. Wash it down with hot tea and dream of your next visit to Purplemint!
3. Veganic Thai Cafe
Where: 1417 Suite A, University Ave, San Diego, CA 92103
Region: Hillcrest
Every item at Veganic Thai Café is 100% animal-free, yet 100% full of flavor! Start with tasty Thai favorites including Cream Cheese Wontons & Spring Rolls before moving into popular dishes of Drunken Noodles, curry of every color and Hot Basil Stir-Fry. Veganic is located right on University Avenue in the heart of Hillcrest; you can sit inside and enjoy the cozy vibes with paper-lantern lights, or relax on the patio and take in the hustle and bustle of this electric neighborhood. But wait: Don’t leave without a serving of Mango Sweet Sticky Rice!
4. Kindred
Where: 1503 30th St, San Diego, CA 92102
Region: North Park & South Park
Known for its ‘kult’ following, Kindred has converted many fans in San Diego’s vegan scene! Begin with a drink unlike any you have seen before, and once you understand the menu’s ideology, go all-in with a serving of Fried & Pickled and Skewers before having the Impossibly amazing Bourbon Beach Burger. Ready for more? Take the next step in your Kindred journey to the new (and Vegan), otherworldly tiki bar Mothership. Just make sure you have a reservation!
5. Loving Hut
Where: 1905 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego, CA 92104
Region: North Park & South Park
Considered your neighborhood vegan kitchen, Loving Hut spreads the love all around San Diego! With three locations around the city, you can try something unique at each; the restaurant specializes in diverse dishes tailored to every location. In North Park, make yourself at home with some warm starters, including the Fun Plate, or cool off with the Heavenly Salad! For a San Diego spin, try the Ocean Tacos, or “shrimp” in the Cha Cha Garlic Noodles. Feel compassion in every bite, as Loving Hut values sustainability, health and happiness.
6. Maya’s Cookies
Where: 4760 Mission Gorge Place, Suite G, San Diego, CA 92120
Region: Mission Valley
It’s not always easy to be vegan with a sweet tooth, but thanks to Maya’s Cookies your cravings will be satisfied! Don’t miss out on Maya’s unique flavors and seasonal offerings. Try the Famous Everything Cookie which includes pretzels, chocolate, oatmeal, marshmallows, and even MORE goodness to please that sweet and salty desire. Or if you want a regular you can’t go wrong with the Classic Chocolate Chip, Snickerdoodle, or Birthday Cake. Stop by the location for the enticing smell of fresh cookies and flavors that will leave your mouth-watering and vegan heart oh so happy!
7. The Yasai
Where: 2254 India St, San Diego, CA 92101
Region: Little Italy
Who said sushi can’t be vegan? Chef Junya Watanabe collaborated with Chef Hajime Matsuoka to create an innovative vegan menu including nigiri, ramen and sushi like never before! Get a sample of it all with a Bento Box with the starter staple of edamame. Not only is everything delicious, but it’s almost too pretty to eat! Order their specialty rolls and don’t forget that phones eat first, as each roll is beautifully covered in photogenic floral and microgreen additives.
8. Donna Jean
Where: 2949 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92103
Region: Balboa Park
Take a seat at one of this comfort-food haven’s long communal tables and start the experience altogether with some wine, sharable plates like Hot Shrooms or Cast-Iron Mac & Cheese before trying to decide on pizza or pasta. Or both! No matter what you get you will be in vegan cheese heaven.
9. The Plot
Where: 1733 S Coast Hwy, Oceanside, CA 92054
Region: North Coastal
Plant-based and no waste. The Plot prides itself not only on good food, but on ‘feeding the evolution’ through endless fresh possibilities. By not bringing anything in that can go in a landfill, co-owners Jessica & Davin Waite create in-house plant-based proteins and utilize produce from the on-site garden. While you can find seasonal flavors during the brunch and lunch menus, you can also enjoy year-round favorites including Cräb Cake, Chickën & Waffles, Stuffed Yam, and Plot Cake dessert.
10. Peace Pies
Where: 4230 Voltaire St, San Diego, CA 92107
Region: Mission Bay & Beaches
Treat yourself to Peace Pies, who are changing the world one slice at a time through zero-waste, raw, vegan, gluten and soy-free dining! Sip into a Mylkshake before moving your way into the Bruschetta and San Diego Caesar. In classic Ocean Beach fashion, try the Mystical Mushroom Quesadilla or Voltaire Street Tacos before getting to the real star of the show: pie. You won’t be able to stop your mouth from watering when ordering the Cosmic Coconut Cream Pie, but make sure to look at the vibrant display case for daily specials to satisfy any sweet-tooth craving.